An industrial air compressor is a device that utilizes either an electric motor or a diesel or gasoline-powered engine to convert power to potential energy stored in pressurized air. While they are similar in functionality to industrial pumps, compressors specialize in air and gas pressurization, while pumps specialize in liquids like water and oil. Industrial air compressors are designed for use in a number of applications including spraying crops and ventilating silos in agricultural facilities, running pneumatic machinery in manufacturing operations, and operating laundry pressers in dry cleaners. They are also useful for other operations in the food and beverage and oil and gas industries. Typical industrial air compressor uses include spraying crops and ventilating silos in agricultural facilities, running pneumatic machinery in manufacturing plants, operating laundry presses in dry cleaners and various processes in food and beverage manufacturing, oil and gas operations and more. Small- and medium-sized businesses are one of the largest air compressor markets. Uses of light industrial air compressors include powering tools in auto repair shops and manufacturing facilities. Construction and roofing crews often rely on trailer-mounted units for greater portability. Other commercial applications include locations like microbreweries — which use them for bottling — and ski hills, where they power snow machines. Commercial grade air compressors are a step up from consumer products in build quality and overall durability. They also generally have a higher capacity (CFM) rating, which means they can power more tools at once — an essential quality in a busy auto body shop or manufacturing facility.
